Halo 5: Guardians beta dates announced; 7 maps and 3 modes included

Beta for 2015's Halo 5: Guardians will run from December 29, 2014 through January 17, 2015, 343 Industries announced today during the Xbox gamescom press briefing.

During the three week period, you'll have access to seven "small maps" which are tailored to 4v4 combat. "The focus of the beta is on 4v4 arena gameplay, which is really getting back to the legacy of competitive gameplay which has always been at the heart of Halo multiplayer," developer 343 Industries said. There will also be three modes, 11 sandbox weapons and several armor sets that you'll be able to customize. Additionally, the Halo 5 beta will have something called "fair starts," which essentially means everyone will start with the same loadout. Every member of the red team will be the same as ever member of the blue team.

As a reminder, Halo 5 beta access will be granted to anyone who purchases Halo: The Master Chief Collection which is due out November 11, 2014.